Painful intercourse, also called dyspareunia, is more common than many people realize, but it is not something you have to live with. Discomfort during or after sex can affect your physical health, emotional well-being, and relationships.
At MyOBGYN in Las Vegas, we provide compassionate, judgment-free care to help identify the cause of your pain and create an effective plan for relief.
What Is Dyspareunia?
Dyspareunia refers to pain that occurs during or after vaginal intercourse. The pain can vary in location, severity, and timing. It may be:
- Felt at the vaginal opening (entry pain)
- Felt deeper in the pelvis during penetration (deep pain)
- Occasional or consistent
- Related to specific positions or persistent with all intercourse
Understanding when and where the pain occurs helps your provider determine the cause and best treatment approach.
Common Causes of Painful Intercourse
Physical causes
- Vaginal dryness, especially after menopause or childbirth
- Hormonal changes related to perimenopause, breastfeeding, or medications
- Vaginal atrophy or thinning of the vaginal walls
- Endometriosis
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- Ovarian cysts or uterine fibroids
- Urinary tract infections or interstitial cystitis
- Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- Vaginismus, or involuntary tightening of the vaginal muscles
- Pelvic floor dysfunction
Emotional and psychological factors
- Past trauma or sexual abuse
- Anxiety, depression, or relationship stress
- Fear of pain leading to muscle tension or avoidance
Many patients experience both physical and emotional components, which are addressed together during treatment.
When to See a Provider
You should schedule an appointment if you:
- Avoid intimacy due to pain or fear of discomfort
- Experience new or worsening pain with intercourse
- Notice dryness, burning, or irritation
- Have trouble with arousal or orgasm due to pain
- Are unsure whether your symptoms are normal
- Want professional help to find lasting relief
Sex should never be painful. Evaluation and treatment can restore comfort and confidence.
Diagnosis
Your provider will begin by reviewing your symptoms, sexual and medical history, and any recent health changes. Evaluation may include:
- A gentle pelvic exam to assess tissue health
- Testing for infection, inflammation, or hormonal imbalance
- Ultrasound or STI screening if indicated
We provide a private, respectful environment where you can discuss your symptoms openly and comfortably.
Treatment Options
Treatment is tailored to the cause of pain and your goals for care.
Non-hormonal support
- Lubricants and vaginal moisturizers for dryness
- Counseling or sex therapy for emotional or relationship support
- Pelvic floor physical therapy for muscle tension or vaginismus
Hormonal treatments
- Vaginal estrogen (cream, ring, or tablet) for dryness or atrophy
- DHEA suppositories to restore tissue health without systemic estrogen
- Systemic hormone therapy for broader menopausal symptoms
Advanced options
- Vaginal laser therapy for improved tone and moisture
- Medication for conditions such as endometriosis or pelvic infection
- Referral for trauma-informed counseling if needed
Our goal is to help you feel comfortable, confident, and in control of your sexual health.
You Deserve Comfortable, Fulfilling Intimacy
Painful intercourse is not a normal part of life or aging. With the right care, most women find significant relief and rediscover intimacy on their own terms.
Schedule an appointment today to discuss your symptoms and start your path toward healing.
📞 Call (702) 463-2981 or visit https://myobgynvegas.com/ to schedule your appointment.